COEUR D'ALENE RIVER FISHING REPORT
April 10, 2025
Location: Coeur d'Alene River and Surrounding Fisheries
Flows:
CDA RIVER: 5,870 CFS AT CATALDO
ST JOE FLOW: 3,980 CFS AT CALDER
CLARK FORK MT: 5,670 CFS AT ST REGIS
SPOKANE RIVER: 15,000 CFS AT POST FALLS
Here is the deal guys and gals. If you are new to North Idaho this is what we call normal here, as far as fishing conditions on our rivers. One day amazing and fishing great. The next rain, cold and rivers on the rise. We are currently sitting right at 100 percent snowpack in our region, which is fantastic! This will give us plenty of cool, cold water this summer when the trout really need it.
We’ve had a couple of low water years that have been somewhat a false positive for some folks, especially those who may be new to the area. Last spring we had very little snow, and warmer conditions that allowed us to have good fishing conditions early. But we suffered greatly last summer with extremely low water, fires, and just all-around dry conditions. This is very hard on our trout, not to mention pressure from anglers during this time too. This year is different. We are looking at a historic “normal” amount of snow. Hopefully it gradually melts through the spring and summer. Giving us a good slow release of precious cold water in the hot summer months.
This will be my 31st year in Coeur d’Alene. We get asked in the shop, daily, what is a “normal” year fishing-wise. I have a hard time answering this as in those 31 years I can’t say that every year has been the same. Similar sometimes, yes, and other times drastically different. This makes it fun, I think. If you are adventurous and don't like sitting in a rut, our area is full of fishing opportunities. You just have to be willing to give them a try.
Our river trout fishing locally is some of the best in the world. However, there are times when it is just not worth going. But we also have some world class bass, pike, panfish and carp. Anymore, these guys are getting much more of my attention. You can reach these fish with a short drive, there's plenty of opportunity, and it’s really not crowded on the water, either. Having a boat helps, but isn't totally necessary. The smallmouth fishing is getting ready to pop off. I can’t wait! The larger smallies will be in the shallows soon and in range for us flyrodders. Sink-tips and big, flashy articulated flies will get smashed by bronze, tiger striped bulldogs.
Then there are pike. These guys have a cult following all their own. I was in that cult at one time. They are the dominant species in most of our lakes. We have produced some near world-record pike from some of our lakes. A 20-pounder is somewhat common, and we hear about them almost monthly here at the shop. But there are 30-pounders out there and even bigger ones waiting to be found. They require patience, determination and a strong casting arm to be in their cult. An 8-weight up to a 10-weight rod with an aggressive backbone and a powerful line to turn over the giant flies, which is what these critters want, is where you need to start. They like the shallows now. Back bays and inlets from 3-to 10-feet deep, with structure or large patches of weeds, are great places to look. Large, white colored flies or perch imitations are great. Cast those suckers as far as you can and keep searching for that giant toilet bowl of an eat.
My gentle giant friends, the carp, are starting to show up. I am addicted to these guys as of late. The water temps are now favorable for them. In spring, prior to the shallows weeding up, is the perfect time to chase these guys. Small crayfish patterns, black leeches, and Woolly Buggers are all great options. Bring your A game as these guys are a challenge. For sure worth the effort. Spooky, big, powerful, subtle eats. All of these things make for a perfect fish. They are really incredible creatures. I’ve grown to really love them. The style of fishing for these guys is as close to saltwater flats fishing as you will find in our area. They will even “tail” just like a redfish, bonefish or permit. We are entering prime time for carp. If you are in the shop, I’d be happy to get you more dialed in on patterns and where to go.
As for an upcoming river report. Well... by the looks of it the rivers are on their way back up. And it might be a bit before they come back into shape. Continuing warming weather patterns will keep our rivers ticking up each day. Not to say we won't get another window this spring, but river opportunities are diminishing. Historically this is “normal”.
As mentioned, think outside the box and see if there are some warmwater opportunities that might spark your interest. We are here to help find that next adventure for you. We love chasing all of the non-trout species here in our area and I know we are going to have a fantastic year. For the being, I’ll be chasing these warmwater critters and I think you should too.
Tight lines,
Tyler